Scammers target Memorial Day

They often have helpful names that hint at heroism and bravery and kindness. But some of the "charities" trying to get your money are anything but charitable, warns the Utah Department of Commerce.

The department has joined a nationwide effort to warn consumers of rip-offs whose perpetrators are pretending they are doing good deeds.

The Federal Trade Commission is leading "Operation False Charity," which includes agencies in 48 states and the District of Columbia. The commission also announced 76 legal actions against fundraising companies, individuals and entities claiming to be nonprofits so they can solicit donations. While Utah doesn't have similar actions pending right now, commerce department spokeswoman Jennifer Bolton says consumers need to check things out before they give.

They're targeting Memorial Day weekend because many of the solicitations conjure up images of fallen or wounded soldiers, firefighters, police officers and others to get money.

"Scammers seize opportunities. There's a tenderness for policemen and firemen and others who put their lives on the line," says Kevin Olsen, director of the Utah Division of Consumer Protection. "There is also a public interest in making sure confidence in gift giving is not tarnished."

If giving dries up, he says, organizations can't meet needs, and government has to step in. "The nonprofit sector in our society is a valuable service in the community."

Olsen offers these tips to help avoid being scammed:

Find out if the person or organization soliciting money is registered to do so by checking online (www.dcp.utah.gov) or calling 801-530-6601. It's no guarantee, but it indicates they're trying to comply with state law. Not being registered is a red flag.

Check online to see what percentage of your donation the charity claims will go to the actual cause. Some solicitors give as little as 5 percent to the cause. There's no "right" percentage; you have to decide whether to give.

Be wary if the individual promises to "swing by" and pick up a check.

Watch for "sound-alike names" to make you think you're dealing with an established and well-respected organization.

Don't give cash. Pay by check, and ask for a receipt showing how much you gave.

Remember that the word "veterans" or "military families" or even "police" in an organization's name does not mean that those groups will benefit from your donation.

Other online resources include Guidestar, www.guidestar.org; Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, www.bbb.org/us/charity; Charity Navigator, www.charitynavigator.org; and the American Institute of Philanthropy, www.charitywatch.org.

E-MAIL: lois@desnews.com